Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society will offer a way to help protect dogs and cats with a low cost rabies, parvo (dogs only), and distemper prevention vaccinations and affordable microchipping on Wednesday, August 3, 2011 from 9 a.m. – 12 noon at the Dakin Adoption and Education Center, 171 Union Street, Springfield.

Rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats are required by law in Massachusetts. This clinic offers a one year rabies vaccination, certificate and tag. Caretakers with a previous rabies certificate are asked to bring it to the clinic.

Rabies vaccinations protect dogs and cats from the deadly rabies virus, which is spread through the saliva of an infected animal. Rabies is a fatal disease with no cure. Only mammals get rabies and it kills almost any animal or human who gets sick from it.

Parvo is a common and serious viral disease in dogs and puppies. It is highly contagious and can be fatal. The most common form of Parvovirus attacks the small intestine. Symptoms include depression or lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes bloody) and severe dehydration. The parvo vaccination is the best defense against this horrible disease.

Canine distemper is a serious, contagious viral infection that can also be prevented with a vaccination.

Microchipping is a safe, simple, and permanent form of pet identification designed to quickly identify lost animals and reunite them with their family.

Vaccinations and microchipping will be offered at just $5 each. Dogs must be on leash. Cats in carriers. No appointment necessary. For more information, call (413) 781-4000.

Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society provides shelter, education, advocacy, and assistance for animals and people in need. Dakin does not receive any government funding nor is Dakin funded or operated by any national humane organization. Dakin is a local, private, non-profit organization that relies solely on contributions from individuals and businesses who care about animals to bring its services to the community.